4Paws University does not offer or recommend boarding-style training programs for the following reasons:

1.  A large majority of the facilities that offer this style of training use punishment-based techniques. While it may appear to be a quick and easy way to have a trained dog, the dog may pay dearly for your convenience.

In 1999, a training facility in Atlanta accidentally gave a dog owner an unedited videotape showing the dog being trained.  The dog is "corrected" so severely on a choke collar that it suffers lacerations to its neck and a damaged trachea.  The trainer in the video continues to abuse the dog while it screams and is later shown laughing at the dog's distress. According to trainer Barbara DeGroodt (one of the founders of the APDT), this method is not uncommon among punishment-based trainers.

While not every trainer that offers a "board and train" service uses extreme or punishment-based methods, whenever you leave your dog in someone else's care you are taking a risk with how they will be treated in your absence. 

2. Fully research anyone before leaving your dog in their care. There are humane, ethical professionals who offer occasional board and train services. If you choose to leave your dog with one of these individuals, consider a one-on-one training session before leaving your dog with them. Are they able to effectively show you how to teach a command, or do they take the leash and do all the work? Can they teach your dog to lay down without force on the leash or the dog's body? Do they board and work with only one or two dogs at a time, or do they have multiple dogs in crates or kennels? Are they certified through or members of a professional organization and, if so, what methods does that organization promote? Do they have a code of ethics that members are expected to follow? Answers to these questions will give you an indication of the quality of the individual and the care your dog will receive.

Final Notes:  Training does not have to be painful to be effective.  In fact, punishment-based methods have been shown to be less effective than reward-based or motivational methods.  This means that a dog would much rather work for something pleasant than to avoid something painful. In addition, punishment-based methods are ineffective when dealing with behavior problems such as aggression, and can make the behavior worse.

Do not tolerate harsh training methods on your dog simply because a "professional trainer" said it must be done.  Never allow a trainer to handle your dog in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable.  You have the right to tell them to stop. 

If a trainer uses or recommends aversive methods such as a correction on a prong collar or an electronic or shock collar or recommends euthanasia, get a second opinion!  Many Humane Societies and SPCAs now have experienced trainers and behavior consultants on staff who will assess your dog and give you a fair, unbiased opinion.

Other Resources on Choosing a Dog Trainer:

Tips on Choosing a Dog Trainer

How To Choose a Trainer
Association of Pet Dog Trainers

Dog Trainer:  How to Choose One
Drs. Foster and Smith

Choosing a Dog Trainer
Humane Society of the United States